The Bible Reading of Young Evangelicals

"It is common knowledge that evangelical Christians take the Bible seriously. A question often overlooked is: how is it read? How do evangelicals find meaning in Biblical passages and how do they negotiate emerging tensions between the text and their cultural identities? This is a study that examines evangelical Biblicism not just as a theological priority but also as a social experience. Ruth Perrin has produced an innovative study, based on careful empirical research among young adult members of evangelical churches in the UK. This is a fascinating volume, full of fresh insights into how young Christians deal with the scriptures they place at the center of their faith."  

--Mathew Guest, Reader in the Sociology of Religion, Durham University



"Many people have many theories about how and why young people do or do not read the Bible but these theories are all too often based on anecdote. Here at last is a serious piece of research that reflects deeply on the subject and is based on in-depth research with young people. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to encourage young people in their reading of the Bible." 

--Paula R. Gooder, Theologian in Residence, Bible Society



"Ruth Perrin has charted new waters with this challenging and detailed study of the Bible reading habits of young Christians. She sets out to show how a generation of young people are interpreting the scriptures and making sense of the faith for themselves. For the academic this book is part of a growing literature on the ethnography of biblical reception. It is also an essential read for anyone working with young adults and in student ministries."

--Pete Ward, Professor, St. John's College Department of Theology and Religion, Durham University



"This is a really important book addressing the fundamental question of how younger evangelicals read the Bible and engage with deeper questions of faith. It is thorough and convincing, allowing participants' voices to be heard alongside Perrin's intelligent analysis of their engagement. It is a compelling read, and, given that this is a largely missing demographic from our churches, I commend it to all church leaders, especially those who seek to engage with this generation."

--Rt Revd Mark Tanner, Bishop of Berwick



"The importance of young evangelicals in the leadership of church and society, both present and future, should not be underestimated and consequently what they actually believe is of both academic and pastoral concern. Ruth Perrin's ground-breaking research gives both new data and insightful interpretation to help us all in this task."

--David Wilkinson, Principal, St. John's College; Professor of Theology and Religion, Durham University